More than 2,200 grave sites have been prepared and pre-sold and another 3,000 grave spaces will be available thanks to the expansion of the Keilor Cemetery; originally established in 1856.
The heritage cemetery has been nearing capacity in recent years. The new section of the cemetery will be officially opened by Parliamentary Secretary for Health Gabrielle Williams MP at a community event on Wednesday 30 August.
During the opening, purchasers will be able to inspect their final resting place after a multifaith opening function to reflect all ethnic and religious backgrounds.
Leaders from four faiths and a layperson will contribute to a multicultural event to celebrate the $6 million extension.
A highlight of the opening will be the reading in five languages of a poem commissioned by the Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust especially for the occasion by internationally-recognised Australian poet, essayist and writer Lisa Gorton, daughter of former Australian Prime Minister John Gorton.
Faith leaders taking part in the opening alongside layperson Nannette Giovannini are:
Father Konstantine Apostolellis (Greek Orthodox)
Father Arockia Sebastian (Italian Catholic)
Father Edwin Agius (Maltese Catholic)
Very Rev Father Tone Gulev (FYROM Orthodox)
All members of the community are welcome to attend this event.
The official opening of the Keilor Cemetery extension will take place on Wednesday 30 August from 10.30 am – 12 noon at Keilor Cemetery (Ely Court, Keilor East, VIC). For further information email corpcomms@gmct.com.au